New Collaborations are on the way with Kenya, after the first African Trade Mission Natural Stone Industry Expands in the African Market
Despite global uncertainties, new opportunities are opening in African markets. The Aegean Natural Stones & Minerals Exporters’ Association (EMİB) organized a three-day Sectoral Trade Mission to Nairobi, Kenya – one of Africa’s largest natural stone markets.
Kenya: An Emerging Hub in the African Natural Stone Market
Although Kenya does not appear at the top in official statistics, it is in fact one of Africa’s major natural stone markets. With its strategic location and growing demand, Kenya presents significant opportunities for Turkish exporters.
Program Highlights
The delegation began with company visits to Natural Stone Kenya, Stone Arts, and Tile & Carpet Centre, later continuing with Century Stone and Elegant Fittings. A total of 10 Turkish companies participated in the mission, accompanied by EMİB representative and Türkiye’s Commercial Counselor in Nairobi, Dr. Mustafa Alıcı, provided valuable support throughout the whole program.
On July 30, 2025, the B2B meetings were held at Serena Hotel’s Allamanda Hall. The event brought together 44 buyers with Turkish exporters, resulting in 232 B2B meetings. Turkish firms stated that approximately 30% of these meetings are likely to produce positive results in the short to medium term.
Market Outlook
Kenya’s natural stone demand is remarkable, since Italian stones are often perceived as luxury and expensive, Turkish natural stones were presented as competitive alternatives. Through direct engagement, Turkish exporters gained first-hand insights into the product sizes, colors, and varieties most demanded in Kenya.
Evaluation of the Trade Mission Program
The mission was the first natural stone trade delegation to the African continent organized by EMİB. Participating companies expressed their satisfaction both before and after the event. The trade mission enabled exporters to establish direct contacts with Kenyan buyers, expand their networks, and better understand the market trends of Sub Saharan Africa.
İbrahim Alimoğlu, Chairman of EMİB, emphasized the importance of continuing such activities:
“Kenya is a promising market where Turkish natural stones can compete strongly. This first mission has laid the foundations for long-term commercial ties. We believe that organizing another trade mission within a year will strengthen our position and representation in the African market.”
Key Figures from the Nairobi Trade Mission
- Participating Turkish Companies: 10
- Kenyan Buyers Attended: 44
- Total B2B Meetings: 232
- Expected Positive Outcomes: ~30% in short/medium term
